A rank-dependent utility model of uncertain lifetime, time consistency and life insurance

In a continuous time life cycle model of consumption with uncertain lifetime and no ''pure time preference", we use a non-parametric specification of rank dependent utility theory to characterize the preferences of the agents. From normative point of view, the paper discusses the implication of adding an axiom of time consistency to the former model. We prove that time consistency holds for a much wider class of probability weighting functions than the identity one characterizing the expected utility model. This special class of probability weighting functions provides foundations for a constant subjective rate of discount which interact multiplicatively with the instantaneous conditional probability of dying. We show that even if agent are time consistent, life annuities no more provide perfect insurance against the risk to live.

Data and Resources

Additional Info

Field Value
Source https://shs.hal.science/halshs-00748662
Author Drouhin, Nicolas
Maintainer CCSD
Last Updated June 1, 2026, 21:38 (UTC)
Created June 1, 2026, 21:38 (UTC)
Identifier halshs-00748662
Language en
Rights https://about.hal.science/hal-authorisation-v1/
contributor Centre d'économie de la Sorbonne (CES) ; Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne (UP1)-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)
creator Drouhin, Nicolas
date 2012-11-13T00:00:00
harvest_object_id 1933e63a-935f-4932-9e6b-b7e97f8cde08
harvest_source_id 3374d638-d20b-4672-ba96-a23232d55657
harvest_source_title test moissonnage SELUNE
metadata_modified 2023-04-06T00:00:00
set_spec type:UNDEFINED